Thanks! I'm a bit picky about quiet living environments so I am not going to aim to be surrounded by a lot of undergrads. 2-30 minute commute seems pretty doable!
I had around 3.0 as undergrad from a top 5 university. Was on academic probation for a semester too due to depression, I think at my lowest my GPA was a 2.5. I took a gap year after graduation to continue working on a research project with my PI and prepare for GRE. Ended up with 325 GRE and 5.5 AW. Got in PhD program first round of applications, didnt do masters program.
If it's a text that is essential for my major and I will end up referring back to it a lot in the future, I prefer to have the physical version
If it's just an elective or a side course that I need for a semester/quater, then definitely digital
I guess if I can't absorb it via reading I can at least sleep on it. Should be plenty thick
As for classes, I actually emailed the faculty at the program and asked them what the first quarter schedule is like, and whether I can get a copy of the old syllabus for some classes.
Took a year off and don't regret it at all. I'm glad I had time to learn a bit more about the programs I was interested in, talked to some grad students about their experiences and in general enjoying life without the stress and hassle of papers and exams. Last vacation before 5 years of doom? Hell yeah.
After reading this thread I'm leaning towards Cap Hill for my first year, for the convenience and just to get a feel of the city. What is the longest commute via bus I can expect, with very heavy traffic? What direction is traffic usually in the morning and evenings (from/to UW)?